West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The heartfelt display of gratitude and patriotism, BJP workers from the districts of Purulia and Bankura in West Bengal gathered at local temples to offer prayers, marking the success of the Indian Army in recent military operations. The event, which took place on May 8, 2025, was a community-driven initiative aimed at honoring the sacrifices and achievements of the Indian armed forces.

The workers, accompanied by party leaders and local residents, visited prominent temples in both districts to express their solidarity and support for the soldiers who continue to safeguard the nation's borders. The prayer sessions were organized with the dual purpose of seeking blessings for the soldiers’ continued success and safety, as well as celebrating the Indian Army’s recent accomplishments in ensuring national security 

The temple visits were marked by hymns and chants of Vande Mataram and other patriotic songs, underscoring the deep sense of pride and reverence that BJP workers feel towards the armed forces. At Purulia’s Saptarshi Temple and Bankura’s Radha Madhab Mandir, workers lit incense sticks and offered flowers, as they joined together in unity to pray for the welfare and success of India’s military.

BJP leaders who were part of the ceremony expressed their gratitude for the bravery and dedication shown by the Indian Army. “We are proud of our soldiers who put their lives on the line every day to protect us. Today, we offer our prayers for their safety and success, as they continue to make the nation proud,” said a BJP leader present at the ceremony 

The prayer meetings were attended by a large number of BJP supporters and local residents, reflecting the deep-rooted connection between the community and the Indian military. With national security being a central theme of recent political discourse, the event also served to strengthen local bonds through a shared sense of purpose and patriotism.

The mood at the temples was one of reverence and respect, as community members from all walks of life came together to honor the Indian Army. Several women, children, and elderly residents also participated in the prayer sessions, further emphasizing the collective effort to support the nation’s armed forces 

Though the event was intended to focus on national pride, it also carried political significance, with BJP workers underscoring the party's commitment to strengthening the country’s defense capabilities. BJP leaders, during their addresses, took the opportunity to praise the Indian government’s efforts in modernizing the armed forces and ensuring that the nation remains secure on both the eastern and western fronts.

While some opposition figures have questioned certain defense-related policies, BJP supporters in Purulia and Bankura used the event to reaffirm their belief in the government's defense strategy and its focus on maintaining a robust and capable military force 

The prayer meetings in Purulia and Bankura were a part of larger efforts by BJP workers across the state to celebrate the achievements of the Indian Army and promote national unity. The event served not only to honor the military but also to remind the citizens of the importance of standing united in the face of challenges to national security.

As the prayers echoed through the temple grounds, BJP workers and local communities reflected on the bravery of the Indian Army and pledged their unwavering support to the forces that protect the country’s sovereignty.